Samuel Reddick of the Orange Education Support Professionals Association has been named the 2026 Florida Education Association (FEA) Education Staff Professional of the Year. Reddick will represent Florida in a national competition at the NEA ESP Conference, where he will compete with other education staff professionals from across the country.
Reddick’s work extends beyond academics, focusing on supporting students and their families in various aspects of daily life. According to his principal, “Samuel prioritized inclusivity amongst the community by curating events such as a Citizenship Clinic, led by local immigration attorneys. In addition to cultural initiatives, such as spirit days and multicultural nights, hey went above and beyond to support the community. I recall one instance where he supported a family in crisis on our campus. Not only did he ensure that two of our homeless students had access to showers, laundry, and food, but through his ties to the community he was able to find them housing. He personally negotiated rental rates with local apartment complexes and then worked with a neighborhood church to raise the funds for the first and last month rental deposits. With all that he did to enrich our community, it is important to note that he never lost sight of the students as his priority. Often acting as a mentor for our students, he was critical in supporting attendance initiatives through home visits and parent communication.”
Ron Pollard, President of Orange Education Support Professionals Association, stated: “Samuel is a great example of what local community leadership looks like- his commitment to his students is the cornerstone of what Orange Education Support Professionals Association stands for and we are proud of his accomplishments and this award.”
Reddick’s impact also includes organizing citizenship clinics with legal experts, leading cultural events at school, assisting families in crisis by securing housing for homeless students through negotiations with landlords and partnerships with churches for funding deposits. He played an active role in promoting student attendance by conducting home visits and communicating directly with parents.
His State Representative commented: “Samuel has been involved in a host of efforts from addressing domestic violence issues, and their effect upon youth, to helping our youth engage in the political process. He created youth master classes to help young people perceive and develop the gifting within them, and have even engaged in a passion of mind, getting young people involved in the young eagles flight program developing future aviators. One of his notable contributions was that he founded the annual community Christmas benefit that grew to be one of the largest in Central Florida impacting 400+ families, serving Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties. This event provides a warm meal, Christmas gifts, and live entertainment for the community. I can honestly say from my years of knowing him that he has expressed a consistent tireless effort to impact the lives around them and make a difference for future generations. I would highly recommend Samuel for any such honors you may be able to bestow.”
Reddick’s recognition highlights ongoing efforts among education support professionals statewide who contribute not only inside schools but also throughout their communities.
